Aniracetam

Product Name: Aniracetam Synonyms: 1-(4-methoxybenzoyl)pyrrolidin-2-one; N-anisoyl-2-pyrrolidinone; Draganon; Ampamet; Memodrin; Ro 13-5057

General Description: Aniracetam is formally described as 1-(4-methoxybenzoyl)pyrrolidin-2-one. It is a synthetic, centrally acting molecule belonging to the racetam family of nootropic (cognitive-enhancing) compounds. Originally developed in the 1970s by the Swiss pharmaceutical company Hoffmann-La Roche, it was designed as a more potent, highly lipophilic (fat-soluble) analogue of the prototypical racetam, piracetam. Aniracetam has been clinically investigated and utilized in several countries for the treatment of cognitive impairment, dementia, and post-stroke memory deficits. In Western markets, it has gained substantial popularity within the experimental nootropic community.

In analytical, clinical, and academic toxicology, aniracetam is utilized as a fundamental reference standard. It is essential for the calibration of analytical instrumentation (such as LC-MS/MS, GC-MS, and HPLC) and the development of screening methodologies to identify and quantify the substance in grey-market dietary supplements, experimental nootropic blends, or biological matrices.

Technical Information:

• CAS Number: 72432-10-1
• Molecular Formula: C₁₂H₁₃NO₃
• Formula Weight: 219.24 g/mol
• SMILES: COC1=CC=C(C=C1)C(=O)N2CCCC2=O
• InChI Key: PYSWJTUPENVWFI-UHFFFAOYSA-N
• Formulation: Typically supplied as a neat white-to-off-white crystalline solid or as a certified reference material solution (e.g., 1 mg/mL in methanol or acetonitrile).

Biological Action: The pharmacological profile of aniracetam is complex and unique among the racetam class. Its primary mechanism of action is as a positive allosteric modulator (PAM) of the ionotropic AMPA glutamate receptor, functionally classifying it as an ampakine. By slowing the desensitization of AMPA receptors, it enhances sustained excitatory synaptic transmission, which heavily mediates its memory-enhancing and neuroplastic properties.

Furthermore, unlike piracetam, aniracetam uniquely exhibits notable anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) and mood-enhancing effects. Preclinical studies indicate this is mediated via its metabolites (such as N-anisoyl-GABA and p-anisic acid) and its subsequent indirect modulation of the dopaminergic (D2) and serotonergic (5-HT2A) systems. It also promotes central cholinergic transmission by facilitating acetylcholine release in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus.

Regulatory and Safety Information:

• Intended Use: This product is intended strictly for use as an analytical reference standard for forensic, toxicological, and academic research purposes.
• Warning: This product is an unapproved investigational compound in many jurisdictions. It is not for human or veterinary use outside of approved clinical applications.